Machakos University Concluded a Week-Long Free Medical Camp, Focusing on Holistic Student and Staff Wellness

Machakos University in a partnership with Aster Health Care, successfully concluded a comprehensive week-long Free Medical Camp, held from 15^th to 19^th September 2025 at the University’s Health Unit. The extended initiative provided thousands of students and staff with unprecedented access to critical and confidential health services directly on campus.

The camp was spearheaded by the Counseling department alongside the leadership of the Alumni Association, The Machakos University Alumni Association, in a powerful demonstration of “giving back,” designed as a holistic wellness intervention, moving beyond general check-ups to address pressing health concerns within the university demographic. The core services included:

Speaking during the event, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration, Planning, and Finance, CPA Prof. Florence Memba, emphasized the University’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of its community.

“Our students and staff are our greatest asset. This medical camp goes beyond treating illness; it is about nurturing a proactive culture of health, awareness, and prevention. By directly addressing critical issues—from mental health to specialist care—we are investing in a more productive and empowered university community. This aligns with our mission to educate the whole person, ensuring they are physically and mentally well as they pursue their academic and professional goals,” she noted.

Also present was Mr. William Nyette, Vice Chairperson of the Alumni Association, whose strong support underscored the important role of alumni in sustaining initiatives that benefit the University community. His presence served as an inspiration for greater alumni engagement and philanthropy.

The core services provided included:

• HIV Testing and Counseling: Confidential and rapid testing was provided, accompanied by pre- and post-test counseling to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage responsible sexual health practices.
• Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Discrete screenings and consultations were available, offering early detection and guidance on treatment and prevention.
• Cervical Cancer Screening: This vital service aimed to promote women’s health through early detection and educational talks on preventive measures.
• Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Awareness: Dedicated desks provided information, confidential counseling, and guidance on support systems and reporting mechanisms for survivors of GBV.
• Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Services: Experts offered consultations on family planning, safe sex practices, and answered questions to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
• Mental Health Awareness and Counseling: Recognizing the immense pressure on students and staff, licensed counselors provided one-on-one and group therapy sessions, stress management techniques, and mental health first-aid education.
• General Surgical Consultations: A key highlight of the camp was the availability of a General Surgeon from Aster Health Care. The surgeon provided expert consultations for a range of conditions, offering professional advice and referral pathways for those needing further care.
• General Wellness Section: This included nutritional advice, physical health assessments (BMI, blood pressure, blood sugar checks), and wellness workshops.

The collaborative effort with Aster Health Care, which provided the specialist medical personnel, was hailed as a model for successful public-private partnerships in advancing healthcare accessibility. The camp successfully reinforced Machakos University’s culture of care, ensuring that both students and staff are equipped with the knowledge and resources to prioritize their